Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A safety monitoring system for monitoring the safety of a mobile work vehicle, comprising: a target object sensor unit comprising a sensor device and a communications transmitter, the sensor device comprising a first component and a second component, at least one of the first component and the second component being configured to be selectively affixed to a location on or associated with the mobile work vehicle, wherein the first component is configured to determine a proximity of the second component to the first component without contact between the first component and the second component, the target object sensor unit being configured to monitor a safety determinative aspect of the mobile work vehicle, the target object sensor unit being further configured to (i) measure an operating condition of the safety determinative aspect using the sensor device, (ii) generate condition data regarding the operating condition, and (iii) transmit the condition data from the communications transmitter; a data acquisition/communication unit (DACU) comprising a first processor, a condition data storage device, and a first network interface device configured to couple the DACU to a communications network, the DACU being configured to attach to a second location on the mobile work vehicle, the DACU being further configured to generate and process safety status data indicating a safety condition of the safety determinative aspect based on the condition data received from the target object sensor unit, and further configured to transmit the safety status data using the first network interface; and a server computing device comprising a second processor, a second data storage device, and a second network interface device configured to couple the server computing device to the communications network, the server computing device being communicatively coupled to the DACU via the communications network and operative to receive the safety status data from the DACU.
A safety system monitors a mobile work vehicle. A sensor unit with a transmitter and proximity sensor is attached to the vehicle. The proximity sensor contains two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle, measures the operating condition of that aspect, generates data about it, and transmits this data. A data acquisition unit (DACU) with a processor, storage, and network interface attaches to the vehicle. The DACU receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network. A server with a processor, storage, and network interface receives the safety status data from the DACU for analysis.
2. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising: a notification device configured to generate a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle, wherein the DACU is configured to generate a safety status notification responsive to processing safety status data indicating that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect corresponds to an unsafe condition, and is configured to transmit the safety status notification to the notification device, and wherein the notification device is configured to generate the notification signal responsive to receiving the safety status notification.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 1 also includes a notification device that alerts workers nearby of unsafe conditions. The data acquisition unit (DACU) creates a safety status notification when it detects an unsafe condition. It then sends this notification to the notification device, which in turn generates an alert signal. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU then determines the safety status and transmits it to a server.
3. The safety monitoring system of claim 2 wherein the DACU is configured to generate a safety status notification responsive to processing safety status data indicating that the operating condition corresponds to an unsafe condition regarding the safety determinative aspect, the DACU is configured to transmit the safety status notification to the server computing device.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 2 includes a notification device that alerts workers nearby of unsafe conditions. The data acquisition unit (DACU) creates a safety status notification when it detects an unsafe condition. It sends this notification both to the notification device AND to a remote server. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU then determines the safety status and transmits it to a server.
4. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising a global positioning system receiver configured to provide location information regarding a location of the mobile work vehicle, wherein at least one of the DACU and/or the server computing device receives the location information.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 1 also includes a GPS receiver that provides location information. Either the data acquisition unit (DACU) or the remote server uses this location information. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
5. The safety monitoring system of claim 4 wherein the first network interface is configured to receive weather data regarding local or approaching weather conditions according to the location information.
The safety monitoring system described in Claim 4 includes a GPS receiver that provides location information. The network interface is also configured to receive weather data relevant to the vehicle's current GPS location or approaching locations. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
6. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the safety determinative aspect is detection of a tool on the mobile work vehicle, the target object sensor unit is configured to determine that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) an equipped status when the tool is detected to be located on the mobile work vehicle, and (ii) an unequipped status when the tool is not detected to be located on the mobile work vehicle.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the safety aspect being monitored is the presence of a tool on the vehicle. The sensor determines if the tool is present (equipped status) or absent (unequipped status). The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
7. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding an aerial lift component of the mobile work vehicle, and the target object sensor unit being configured to determine that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) a non-operational status when the aerial lift component is located at a home position, and (ii) an operational status when the aerial lift component is located at an active position.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the safety aspect being monitored is an aerial lift component. The sensor determines if the lift is in its home (non-operational) or active (operational) position. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
8. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding an aerial lift platform component of the mobile work vehicle, and the target object sensor unit is configured to determine that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) an unoccupied status when the aerial lift platform component is unoccupied by a worker, and (ii) an occupied status when the aerial lift platform component is occupied by a worker.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the safety aspect being monitored is an aerial lift platform. The sensor determines if the platform is unoccupied or occupied by a worker. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
9. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding an aerial lift platform protection attachment component of the mobile work vehicle, and the target object sensor unit is configured to determine that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) a secured status when a protection device is engaged with the aerial lift platform protection attachment component, and (ii) an unsecured status when the protection device is not engaged with the aerial lift platform protection component.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the safety aspect being monitored is a protection attachment component of an aerial lift platform. The sensor determines if a protection device (e.g., safety harness) is engaged (secured status) or not engaged (unsecured status). The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
10. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding a stabilization component of the mobile work vehicle, and the target object sensor unit is configured to determine that the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) a non-deployed status when the stabilization component is not deployed to stabilize the mobile work vehicle, and (ii) a deployed status when the stabilization component is deployed to stabilize the mobile work vehicle.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the safety aspect being monitored is a stabilization component of the vehicle. The sensor determines if the component is deployed to stabilize the vehicle or not deployed. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
11. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the DACU further comprises: an electronic control unit reader (ECU reader) that is configured to receive electronic control unit (ECU) communications from an ECU that controls the mobile work vehicle, the ECU communications containing vehicle data regarding motor vehicle operation characteristics of the mobile work vehicle, wherein the DACU is further configured to generate driver and vehicle behavior data based on the vehicle data.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the data acquisition unit (DACU) includes an ECU reader that receives communications from the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU). This data includes vehicle operating characteristics. The DACU uses this data to generate driver and vehicle behavior information. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
12. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the DACU further comprises: a motion-sensitive sensor configured to detect at least one of motion, acceleration, and orientation of the mobile work vehicle, and generate sensor data based on the at least one of motion, acceleration, and orientation of the mobile work vehicle detected, the DACU being further configured to generate the safety status data based on the sensor data.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the data acquisition unit (DACU) includes a motion-sensitive sensor that detects motion, acceleration, and orientation of the vehicle. The DACU generates sensor data based on this information and then uses that sensor data as the basis for the safety status data. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
13. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising: a second target object sensor unit attached to the mobile work vehicle, wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding detection of an electromagnetic field near a second location on the mobile work vehicle, the second target object sensor unit being configured to measure an electromagnetic field near the second target object sensor unit, and the second target object sensor unit is configured to determine the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect as (i) a high risk status when the electromagnetic field measured equals or exceeds a predetermined field threshold, and (ii) a low risk status when the electromagnetic field measured is less than the predetermined field threshold.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 1 also includes a second sensor attached to the vehicle to detect electromagnetic fields. This second sensor measures the field strength and determines a risk status: high risk if the field equals or exceeds a threshold, low risk otherwise. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
14. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising: a second target object sensor unit attached to the mobile work vehicle, wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding detection of wind conditions at a second location on the mobile work vehicle, the second target object sensor unit being configured to measure a wind velocity, and the second target object sensor is configured to determine the operating condition of the safety determinative aspect is (i) a high wind status when the measured wind velocity equals or exceeds a predetermined wind threshold, and (ii) a low wind status when the measured wind velocity is less than the predetermined wind threshold.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 1 also includes a second sensor attached to the vehicle to detect wind conditions. This second sensor measures the wind velocity and determines a wind status: high wind if the velocity equals or exceeds a threshold, low wind otherwise. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
15. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the server computing device is configured to store the safety status data and generate safety statistics based on safety status data of the mobile work vehicle aggregated over a period of time.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the remote server stores the safety status data and generates safety statistics for a mobile work vehicle by aggregating its safety status data over time. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
16. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 wherein the server computing device is configured to generate and transmit third party notifications to communication devices of persons not assigned to the mobile work vehicle.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the remote server generates and transmits notifications to communication devices belonging to people NOT assigned to the monitored vehicle. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
17. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , further comprising: a load-bearing lanyard for providing fall protection to a user, the lanyard configured to attach to an attachment component of the mobile work vehicle to provide fall protection for the user, wherein one of the first component and the second component is united with the lanyard and the other of the first component and the second component is attached to the mobile work vehicle at a location adjacent to the attachment component, and the second component is configured to emit a signal and the first component is configured to detect the signal emitted from the first device to determine the proximity.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 1 also monitors the connection of a fall protection lanyard. The lanyard connects to the vehicle. One component of the proximity sensor is attached to the lanyard, and the other is on the vehicle near the lanyard attachment point. The vehicle-mounted component emits a signal, and the lanyard component detects it to verify the lanyard's proximity. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
18. The safety monitoring system of claim 17 , wherein the second component includes a magnetic component configured to emit an electromagnetic field, and the first component includes a magnetic sensor unit configured to measure a characteristic of the electromagnetic field, and determination of the proximity is based at least in part on the characteristic measured.
In the lanyard monitoring system described in Claim 17, the vehicle-mounted component of the proximity sensor contains a magnet that emits an electromagnetic field. The lanyard-mounted component contains a magnetic sensor that measures characteristics of this field. Proximity detection is based on the measured field characteristics. The system monitors a safety-related aspect of the vehicle using a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
19. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein the target object sensor unit is a self-powered unit.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the target object sensor unit is self-powered (e.g. battery or solar). This unit contains two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
20. The safety monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein the target object sensor unit further comprises a wireless transmitter configured to wirelessly transmit data to the data acquisition and communication unit.
In the safety monitoring system described in Claim 1, the target object sensor unit uses a wireless transmitter to send data to the data acquisition unit (DACU). The unit contains two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU, attached to the vehicle, receives sensor data, processes it to determine the safety status, and transmits the status over a network to the server.
21. A method of monitoring the safety of a mobile work vehicle, comprising: transmitting, from a target object sensor unit attached to the mobile work vehicle at a first location on the mobile work vehicle, condition data regarding an operating condition of a safety determinative aspect of the mobile work vehicle, the condition data indicating detection of a proximity between a first component and a second component of the target object sensor unit, at least one of the first component and the second component being configured to be selectively affixed to a location on or associated with the mobile work vehicle, and the proximity of the second component to the first component being detected without contact between the first component and the second component; receiving the condition data at a data acquisition/communication unit (DACU) attached to a second location of the mobile work vehicle; processing, in the DACU, the condition data to generate safety status data regarding the safety determinative aspect; associating the safety status data with vehicle identification information of the mobile work vehicle; and wirelessly transmitting the safety status data and associated vehicle identification information to a remote server computing device.
A method for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety involves transmitting condition data from a sensor on the vehicle. The sensor consists of two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID. Finally, it wirelessly transmits the safety status and vehicle ID to a remote server.
22. The method of claim 21 , further comprising: analyzing the safety status data to determine a safety status of the mobile work vehicle; generating a safety status notification responsive to determining that the safety status corresponds to an unsafe condition; transmitting the safety status notification to a notification device; and generating, responsive to receiving the safety status notification, a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle.
The method described in Claim 21 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety also includes analyzing the safety status data to determine the vehicle's safety. If an unsafe condition is detected, a safety status notification is generated and transmitted to a notification device, which then generates an alert signal for workers nearby. The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
23. The method of claim 22 , further comprising: receiving location information regarding a location of the mobile work vehicle, processing the location information to generate the safety status data, and the safety status is determined as an unsafe status if the safety status data indicates that the mobile work vehicle has remained at a work location for a time period equal to or exceeding a predetermined threshold time period.
The method described in Claim 22 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety involves analyzing the safety status data to determine the vehicle's safety. If an unsafe condition is detected, a safety status notification is generated and transmitted to a notification device, which then generates an alert signal for workers nearby. Location information of the work vehicle is received and used to generate the safety status. The safety status is determined to be unsafe if the mobile work vehicle has remained at a location for a time period exceeding a predetermined threshold. The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
24. The method of 22 , further comprising: receiving motion data regarding movement characteristics of the mobile work vehicle, processing the motion data to generate the safety status data, and the safety status is determined as an unsafe status if the safety status data indicates that the mobile work vehicle (i) accelerates or decelerates at a rate equal to or exceeding a predetermined threshold rate; (ii) reached a speed equal to or exceeding a predetermined threshold speed; or (iii) is operated for a time period equal to or exceeding a predetermined threshold time period.
The method described in Claim 22 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety involves analyzing the safety status data to determine the vehicle's safety. If an unsafe condition is detected, a safety status notification is generated and transmitted to a notification device, which then generates an alert signal for workers nearby. Motion data is received and processed into safety status data. An unsafe status is triggered if the vehicle accelerates or decelerates beyond a threshold, reaches a speed beyond a threshold, or operates for longer than a threshold period. The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
25. The method of claim 21 , further comprising: transmitting, from a second target object sensor unit attached to a second location on the mobile work vehicle, second condition data indicating a second operating condition regarding a second safety determinative aspect of the mobile work vehicle; receiving the second condition data at the DACU; wherein processing the second condition data to generate the safety status data.
The method described in Claim 21 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety also includes using a second sensor attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors. The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
26. The method of claim 25 , further comprising: analyzing the safety status data to determine a safety status of the mobile work vehicle; generating a safety status notification responsive to determining that the safety status corresponds to an unsafe condition; transmitting the safety status notification to a notification device; and generating, responsive to receiving the safety status notification, a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle's safety using two sensors analyzes the combined safety status data to determine overall vehicle safety. If an unsafe condition is detected, a safety status notification is generated and transmitted to a notification device, which then generates an alert signal for workers nearby. The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
27. The method of claim 25 wherein the condition data includes data regarding measurement of an electromagnetic field near the target object sensor unit, wherein the second safety determinative aspect is risk of electric shock near a second target object sensor unit, and wherein the safety status generated indicates (i) a high risk status when the electromagnetic field measured equals or exceeds a predetermined field threshold, and (ii) a low risk status when the electromagnetic field measured is less than the predetermined field threshold, the method further comprising: generating a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle responsive to determining that the operating condition is the high risk status.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle uses a second sensor that measures electromagnetic field strength near the vehicle, indicating a risk of electric shock. A high-risk status is indicated when the field strength exceeds a threshold; otherwise, a low-risk status is indicated. If a high-risk status is indicated, a notification signal alerts workers nearby. The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
28. The method of claim 25 wherein the safety determinative aspect is regarding whether a worker in an operational aerial lift component of the mobile work vehicle is protected, wherein the condition data indicates an operating condition of an aerial lift, wherein the second condition data indicates a protection status of a protection device of a worker on an aerial lift platform of the aerial lift, wherein the safety status data indicates (i) a secured status when the protection status of the protection device is a protected state, and (ii) an unsecured status when the protection status of the protection device is an unprotected state, and wherein the safety status indicates (i) a non-operational status when the aerial lift is not elevated, and (ii) an operational status when the aerial lift is elevated, the method further comprising: analyzing the safety status data to determine a safety status of the mobile work vehicle; generating a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle responsive to determining that the safety status data indicates the unsecured status and the operational status.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle monitors if a worker in an aerial lift is protected. The sensor data indicates the lift's operating condition (elevated or not). The second sensor data indicates the protection status (protected or unprotected). Safety status indicates "secured" if protection is active, "unsecured" otherwise. Also indicates "operational" when aerial lift is elevated, "non-operational" otherwise. A notification alerts nearby workers when status is "unsecured" AND "operational." The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
29. The method of claim 25 wherein the condition data includes wind speed data indicating a wind speed near the mobile work vehicle; wherein the second safety determinative aspect is risk of aerial lift topple, and the safety status data indicates (i) a high wind topple risk status when the wind speed data indicates a wind speed equal to or exceeding a predetermined wind speed threshold, and (ii) a low wind topple risk status when the wind speed data indicates a wind speed less than the predetermined wind speed threshold.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle uses a second sensor to measure wind speed, indicating the risk of the aerial lift toppling. Safety status indicates "high wind topple risk" if wind speed exceeds a threshold; otherwise, "low wind topple risk." The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
30. The method of claim 25 further comprising: generating mobile work vehicle motion data indicating at least one of a motion, an acceleration, and a vertical orientation of the mobile work vehicle, the vertical orientation of the mobile work vehicle being an angle of vertical orientation with respect to a direction of gravity, wherein the second safety determinative aspect is risk of aerial lift topple, processing the mobile work vehicle motion data to generate the safety status data regarding the second safety determinative aspect, and the safety status data indicates (i) a high vehicle instability status when the mobile indicates that the mobile work vehicle is moving or the vertical orientation of the mobile work vehicle equals or exceeds a predetermined threshold angle, and (ii) a low vehicle instability status when the mobile work vehicle is static and the vertical orientation is less than the predetermined threshold angle.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle uses vehicle motion data, like movement, acceleration, and tilt angle relative to gravity, to detect aerial lift topple risk. The safety status indicates "high vehicle instability" if the vehicle is moving or the tilt angle exceeds a threshold, and "low vehicle instability" otherwise. The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
31. The method of claim 25 wherein the condition data includes stabilization component data regarding a position of a stabilization component on the mobile work vehicle, the stabilization component data indicating a non-deployed position of the stabilization component when the stabilization component is not deployed from a main body of the mobile work vehicle, and the stabilization component data indicating a deployed position of the stabilization component when the stabilization component is deployed from the main body, wherein the second safety determinative aspect is risk of aerial lift topple, and the safety status data indicates (i) a non-deployed status when the stabilization component data indicates that the stabilization is in the non-deployed position, and (ii) a deployed status when the stabilization component data indicates that the stabilization is in the deployed state.
The method described in Claim 25 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle uses data from stabilization components (outriggers) to detect aerial lift topple risk. The sensor indicates whether the components are deployed or not. Safety status indicates "non-deployed" if components aren't deployed and "deployed" otherwise. The method involves two sensors attached to the vehicle to send condition data. The data acquisition unit (DACU) receives this data, and the safety status data is generated using the data from BOTH sensors and is associated with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
32. The method of claim 21 wherein the safety determinative aspect is detection of a tool on the mobile work vehicle, and wherein the safety status data generated indicates (i) an equipped status where the tool is detected to be located on the mobile work vehicle, and (ii) an unequipped status where the tool is not detected to be located on the mobile work vehicle, the method further comprising: generating a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle responsive to determining that the operating condition is the unequipped state.
The method described in Claim 21 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle monitors for presence of a tool. Safety status indicates "equipped" if the tool is present, and "unequipped" if it's absent. An alert signals nearby workers when the status is "unequipped." The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
33. The method of claim 21 , further comprising: receiving weather data regarding weather conditions local to or approaching a location of the mobile work vehicle, and processing the weather data to generate the safety status data regarding a second safety determinative aspect.
The method described in Claim 21 for monitoring a mobile work vehicle receives weather data for the vehicle's location and processes it to generate safety status data relating to a second safety aspect. The method involves a sensor with two components that detect proximity without physical contact to determine a safety aspect. The data acquisition unit (DACU) on the vehicle receives this data, processes it to generate safety status, and associates this status with the vehicle's ID before transmitting to a remote server.
34. A safety monitoring system for monitoring the safety of a mobile work vehicle, comprising: a target object sensor unit comprising a communications transmitter, a first component and a second component, at least one of the first component and the second component being configured to be selectively affixed to a location on or associated with the mobile work vehicle, wherein the first component is configured to determine a proximity of the second component to the first component without contact between the first component and the second component, the target object sensor unit being configured to monitor a safety determinative aspect of the mobile work vehicle, the target object sensor unit being further configured to (i) determine an operating condition of the safety determinative aspect, (ii) generate condition data regarding the operating condition, and (iii) transmit the condition data from the communications transmitter; a data acquisition/communication unit (DACU) comprising a first processor, a condition data storage device, and a first network interface device configured to couple the DACU to a communications network, the DACU being configured to attach to a second location on the mobile work vehicle, the DACU being further configured to generate safety status data indicating a safety condition of the safety determinative aspect based on the condition data received from the target object sensor unit, and further configured to transmit the safety status data; and a notification device comprising a communications receiver configured to receive the safety status data from the DACU, configured to generate a notification signal alerting a worker proximate to or in the mobile work vehicle, and configured to generate the notification signal responsive to receiving the safety status data indicating that the operating condition corresponds to an existing or potential unsafe condition regarding the safety determinative aspect.
A safety monitoring system monitors a mobile work vehicle. A sensor with a transmitter and proximity sensor is attached to the vehicle. The proximity sensor contains two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor monitors a safety aspect, determines the condition of that aspect, generates data, and transmits it. A data acquisition unit (DACU) with a processor, storage, and network interface attaches to the vehicle. The DACU receives sensor data and processes it to determine safety status. A notification device with a receiver generates an alert signal for workers nearby when the DACU sends safety status data indicating an existing or potential unsafe condition.
35. The safety monitoring system of claim 34 , further comprising: a load-bearing lanyard for providing fall protection to a user, the lanyard configured to attach to an attachment component of the mobile work vehicle to provide fall protection for the user, wherein one of the first component and the second component is united with the lanyard and the other of the first component and the second component is attached to the mobile work vehicle at a location adjacent to the attachment component, and the second component is configured to emit a signal and the first component is configured to detect the signal emitted from the first device to determine the proximity.
The safety monitoring system for a mobile work vehicle described in Claim 34 also monitors the connection of a fall protection lanyard. The lanyard connects to the vehicle. One component of the proximity sensor is attached to the lanyard, and the other is on the vehicle near the lanyard attachment point. The vehicle-mounted component emits a signal, and the lanyard component detects it to verify the lanyard's proximity. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU then determines the safety status and transmits it to the notification device, which alerts workers nearby.
36. The safety monitoring system of claim 35 , wherein the second component includes a magnetic component configured to emit an electromagnetic field, and the first component includes a magnetic sensor unit configured to measure a characteristic of the electromagnetic field, and determination of the proximity is based at least in part on the characteristic measured.
In the lanyard monitoring system described in Claim 35, the vehicle-mounted component of the proximity sensor contains a magnet that emits an electromagnetic field. The lanyard-mounted component contains a magnetic sensor that measures characteristics of this field. Proximity detection is based on the measured field characteristics. The system comprises a sensor with two components that detect each other without physical contact. This sensor measures the operating condition, generates data, and transmits it to the DACU. The DACU then determines the safety status and transmits it to the notification device, which alerts workers nearby.
37. A lanyard safety detection system comprising: a load-bearing lanyard for providing fall protection to a user, the lanyard configured to attach to an attachment component of an object to provide fall protection for the user; a first sensor device coupled to the lanyard; and a second sensor device external to the lanyard and configured to selectively attach to the object, the first sensor device configured to interact with the second sensor device to determine a non-contact proximity of the first sensor device to the second sensor device and provide an indication of safety based at least in part on detection of the non-contact proximity, wherein one of the first and second sensor devices is configured to emit a signal and the other of the first and second sensor devices is configured to detect the signal emitted from the signal emitting device, the non-contact proximity being determined based at least in part on the signal detecting device determining that the signal emitted satisfies a predetermined condition.
A lanyard safety detection system includes a load-bearing lanyard for fall protection. A first sensor is coupled to the lanyard, and a second sensor is separate from the lanyard, configured to attach to an object (e.g., work vehicle). These sensors interact to determine proximity without physical contact, providing a safety indication based on that proximity. One sensor emits a signal, the other detects it; proximity is determined when the signal detected meets certain criteria.
38. The lanyard of claim 37 , wherein the signal emitting device includes a magnetic component for emitting an electromagnetic field, and the signal detecting device including a magnetic sensor unit configured to measure a characteristic of the electromagnetic field, and determination of the non-contact proximity is based at least in part on the characteristic measured.
In the lanyard system described in Claim 37, the signal-emitting sensor contains a magnet that emits an electromagnetic field. The signal-detecting sensor contains a magnetic sensor that measures characteristics of this field. Proximity detection is based on these measured field characteristics.
Unknown
October 3, 2017
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.